Donating items that are no longer used can make a big difference in the lives of the less fortunate. What's more, donating through a charitable organization, such as Goodwill, can promote health, happiness, and a sense of community. By making use of some of the right techniques and procedures, your Goodwill donation will soon reach those in need.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Identifying Donations Received
Step 1. Collect items to donate
Whether you find clothes that you rarely wear when you're cleaning, or are just emptying out a closet that's already full of things you don't wear often, gather all the things you can donate in one place. You may want to separate the items you want to donate by type, by creating stacks for items such as:
- Book
- Clothes
- Electronic goods
- Household appliances
- Shoe
Step 2. Check the donation once again
Donating damaged items won't do anyone any good, so it's a good idea to briefly check all of the items you wish to donate to make sure each item is intact or in pieces, and isn't damaged.
Try electronic items and equipment first to see if they still function properly. This way, you can feel confident that your donation will be of value
Step 3. Segregate donations according to Goodwill guidelines
Goodwill accepts most household items that are new, like new, and have been used briefly, including furniture and electronics. Some common items that Goodwill does not accept:
- Carpets/carpet pads
- Chemical products
- Crib
- Tube television, digital or rear projection
- Large household appliances (refrigerator, washer/dryer, etc.)
- Mattress/cot
- Weapon
Step 4. Keep items in pairs and sets in one place
Try to keep items that come in pairs in one place so they don't get separated, as a single shoe or plate will be far less useful than a complete set. You might consider using an elastic band to prevent shoes or other set items from losing their mate. When loading things into your car, it's a lot easier to put your donations in if you keep similar items in a bag or box.
Step 5. Make a list and estimate the value
This can be especially useful if you plan to use this donation for tax deduction purposes. Write down all the items you want to donate, then use the Goodwill Valuation Guide to estimate the value of your donation.
Step 6. Put your donation in a reusable container
Plastic containers or containers are often more durable than plastic bags or cardboard boxes, which can be especially useful when moving donations that are heavy or difficult to carry. What's more, by moving items to the donation center using reusable containers, you're helping to protect the environment by reducing waste.
Step 7. Label the glassware
If you're donating something that has fragile or breakable parts, you may want to hand it over to a Goodwill officer as soon as you arrive at the donation center. If you are donating some fragile items or handing over fragile items is not possible, pack each item carefully and label each box with the clear word, “Shatter.”
Damaged goods will not only lose most, if not all, of their value, but they can also be a guarantee of safety for Goodwill employees. Make sure your glassware is wrapped securely
Step 8. Consider donating money
Goodwill aims to make positive changes in the lives of people in need or less fortunate. In 2014 alone, Goodwill helped 318,000 people with its job-finding services and 26.4 million people with its professional development and financial planning services. By donating money to Goowill, you can be a part of positive change at a local or national level.
- Donate your money by check or in cash at your local Goodwill center.
- Make an online donation via the Goodwill website at:
-
Checks sent by email must be addressed to "Goodwill Industries International, Inc." at the address:Goodwill Industries
International, Inc.
15810 Indianola Drive
Rockville, MD 20855
Part 2 of 2: Delivering Donations
Step 1. Locate the nearest Goodwill donation center
Goodwill is a large charity located throughout America, Canada and other countries. You can do a general internet search with the keyword "Goodwill donation center near me," or you can visit the Goodwill website and use the locator feature at the top of the page. You can visit the Goodwill website at:
https://www.goodwill.org/
Step 2. Park the car at the drop-off area or talk to an officer
When you use your car to pick up a donation, you'll see a sign at the donation center directing you to the drop-off location. Follow these signs, and after parking the car, a donation clerk will come and help you pick up the donation.
If you arrived with a donation on foot, you can bring the donation through the front door and ask for help from the front desk clerk
Step 3. Request a receipt, if desired
Donations can reduce taxes in the United States and can help you save money in the tax period. When dropping off items for donation, ask the helpful person for a receipt for your contribution.
Keep your donation receipt until it's time to file taxes, then write the information in the appropriate section for tax deductions
Step 4. Check your donation receipt
It's easy to miss items when you're carrying a large donation, so you'll want to make sure all donated items are entered and properly graded on the receipt. By checking your donation receipt against a list of donated items, you can be sure that you are not only helping people, but are getting the highest possible tax deduction.
Tips
- Remember that any donation matters. Even if you don't see its use, other people might find it useful.
- Organize your donations according to the changing seasons. It is likely that people in need will make much more use of thick clothing in winter than in summer.
- A number of very useful items could be considered for donation: computers, cell phones, books, clothes, and household appliances.
